Heliotrope is a lovely, old-fashioned, exotic-appearing annual with a sweet vanilla-like fragrance. The flowers appear in dense clusters on stems above deep green, heavily textured leaves. Excellent as a cut flower, or mixed with sweet alyssum and marigolds to attract beneficial insects. Grows about 12 to 18 inches tall and wide. It is an evergreen perennial in its native Peru, but does not over-winter outdoors in our cold climate.
Heliotrope will grow in full sun, though they appreciate a little afternoon shade. Plants can be over-wintered indoors, but they need bright light and cool temperatures. Moderate water; over-watering will diminish fragrance.